PANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Pana Police Department has provided an update on their investigation into the “reported bullying” which took place at Pana High School.

The department said that the incident occurred between three to four weeks ago and was “brought to the attention of school staff” on March 28. It was reported to the department on Saturday and now, investigators are gathering statements and evidence and have completed multiple interviews.

Five students have been implicated in an incident where a student was held over a toilet against his will before being released. Police added that the victim had no contact with the toilet and received no visible injuries.

Department officials said they will continue to work closely with Pana Schools officials to uncover all of the facts, which they will then present to the State’s Attorney.

When reached for comment over the weekend, the Pana Community Unit School District provided a statement. District officials said in part:

“Pana C.U.S.D. #8 High School Administration became aware of a video that was posted on
social media late morning Friday, March 28th, which immediately initiated an in-depth
Investigation into the students involved in an incident inside a restroom at Pana High School
involving multiple students.”

The district added that they are taking the matter “very seriously,” and that they will work together with law enforcement to ensure student safety.

“Following the District’s investigation, school officials deemed the matter serious enough to have
involved the Pana Police Department to conduct their own investigation into the incident,” officials added. “The District is not at liberty to comment further on the results of its investigation or student discipline administered due to student records protections and minors’ confidentiality rights.”

This is a developing story.